Have you ever wanted to access more entertainment options, play exciting games or customize workout routines directly from the comfort of your living room TV? Well downloading apps onto your Apple TV opens up all these possibilities and more.
In this comprehensive guide, I‘ll provide a step-by-step walkthrough on how to find and install apps on Apple TV models that support downloads. You‘ll learn about the many benefits apps provide, from expanding your streaming library to keeping fit. I‘ll also share insider troubleshooting tips based on my experience deploying Apple devices across corporate networks.
Let‘s get started! This process is quick and easy.
Why Add Apps to Your Apple TV?
Before we get into the how-to, let me briefly summarize why you may want to download apps in the first place.
Access More Streaming Content
Apple TV owners now spend over 80% of their time accessing streaming apps like Netflix, Prime Video and Disney+. Downloading these apps directly rather than casting from your phone provides a smoother experience. You also gain access to more niche apps like Britbox for British shows.
Enjoy Casual Gaming
Don‘t overlook the Apple TV‘s gaming chops! Apple Arcade provides unlimited access to over 200 exclusive games with new titles added regularly. Top downloads in 2022 included classics like Frogger as well as family friendly adventures such as Pok Pok Playroom.
Mix Up Your Workouts
Boost fitness levels right from home by downloading workout apps on Apple TV. Choose from yoga flows, HIIT training, strength building routines and more. Apple Fitness+ even gamifies workouts to make getting in shape more fun.
Now let‘s dive into downloading apps onto your Apple TV. I‘ll be referencing the latest 4K model but the process is similar on any Apple TV HD or 4K device.
Step 1: Open The App Store
From the main home screen, select the App Store icon located towards the top.
This launches the Apple TV App Store. The layout is visually similar to the app store on iPhones and iPads so it should feel familiar.
Step 2: Browse or Search for Apps
Upon opening, you can immediately browse featured apps on the home page. Or use the search bar to find something specific.
Let‘s say I wanted to install the Xfinity Stream app to access live TV channels and rental movies included with my home internet package. I would search for "Xfinity Stream" and then select the app from the search results.
Take some time to explore the categories and charts which showcase top apps. Tapping an app icon will open its details page with screenshots, ratings and reviews.
Step 3: Download the App
To download a chosen app, simply select the prominent "Get" button on its App Store details page.
The app will begin downloading automatically. Based on your internet speeds, this usually completes in under a minute.
Some apps do have associated costs but the vast majority are free downloads.
Once installed, you‘ll find the app waiting on the home screen ready to enjoy!
Comparison of Top Apple TV App Categories
To help summarize the breadth of content available, here is a comparison of some popular streaming, gaming and fitness apps ready for download:
| App Type | Top Options | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Streaming |
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| Gaming |
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| Fitness |
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Tips for Managing Your Apps
I wanted to share some pro tips for keeping your apps organized and up to date based on my own Apple TV experience:
Check for app updates regularly in the Updates section of the App Store. Bug fixes and new features are often added. Updates can also now install automatically if enabled.
To remove an app, press and hold the Siri remote touchpad over it until icons jiggle. Then click the delete button displayed. Don‘t worry, any associated app data will not be lost if you later reinstall.
Cut down on home screen clutter by organizing apps into folders. Simply drag one app icon over another to create a folder containing them both. Useful if you group streaming services or related apps.
I hope this guide has shown how easy yet beneficial downloading apps onto your Apple TV can be. Let me know if you have any other questions! I‘m happy to provide more personal guidance.
